Hotels in Leith, Edinburgh: Stay by the Water
Updated 15 August 2026 · 5 real hotels
Leith is a genuinely rewarding area to stay in Edinburgh, especially for travellers who want a lively, local atmosphere away from the Old Town crowds. It suits food lovers, couples, and independent travellers who value character and good transport connections over proximity to the Royal Mile.
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Leith sits roughly two miles north of Edinburgh city centre, at the point where the Water of Leith meets the Firth of Forth. Once a working port with a rough-and-ready reputation, it has transformed over the past two decades into one of the city's most interesting neighbourhoods, packed with Michelin-starred restaurants, independent bars, art galleries, and a busy weekend market at Dock Place. The Shore, Leith's waterfront strip, is particularly atmospheric, lined with pubs and restaurants that draw both locals and visitors throughout the year.
Staying in Leith means accepting a short bus or tram ride into the historic centre, but many guests find that trade-off worthwhile. Accommodation here tends to offer more space and often more personality than equivalent options in the Old Town, and the neighbourhood itself rewards those who enjoy exploring on foot. The area suits couples looking for a quieter base, food-focused travellers wanting to be close to Leith's dining scene, and anyone who prefers a lived-in Edinburgh neighbourhood to the busiest tourist corridors.
Where to stay on any budget?
A real selection, real prices, from the most affordable to the showstopper.
| Hotel | Area | Rating | Price / night |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Johns Place Townhouse ★★★★ | Leith | ★ 4.8 | 244 €/nuit |
| Cairn Hotel ★★ | Leith | ★ 4.3 | 253 €/nuit |
| Ocean Mist Leith ★★★ | Leith | ★ 5 | 293 €/nuit |
| No 11 ★★★★ | Leith | ★ 4.5 | 312 €/nuit |
| Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel ★★★★★ | Leith | ★ 5 | 517 €/nuit |
Frequently asked questions
How far is Leith from Edinburgh city centre and the main attractions?+
Leith is approximately two miles north of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. The Lothian Buses network connects Leith to the city centre frequently, with journey times of around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the route and time of day. The Edinburgh Trams line also links Leith (at Newhaven, just west of the area) to the city centre and Edinburgh Airport, making transport straightforward for most visitors.
What types of hotels are available in Leith?+
Leith has a small but distinctive range of places to stay. The Fingal is a converted lighthouse tender ship moored in the port and rated 5 stars at around 517 euros per night, offering a genuinely one-of-a-kind experience. For boutique townhouse accommodation, 3 Johns Place Townhouse (4 stars, 244 euros) and No 11 (4 stars, 312 euros) both carry strong guest ratings. Ocean Mist Leith (2.5 stars, 293 euros) has a perfect guest score of 5 out of 5, and the Cairn Hotel (2 stars, 253 euros) provides a more budget-conscious option with solid reviews at 4.3 out of 5.
Is Leith a safe area to stay in Edinburgh?+
Leith has changed considerably in recent years and the waterfront and Shore area are generally safe and welcoming. Like any urban neighbourhood, some streets away from the main commercial strips are quieter at night, so standard city awareness applies. The areas around The Shore, Constitution Street, and the dock developments where most hotels are located are well-frequented and suitable for visitors.
What can I do and eat in Leith during my stay?+
Leith is one of Edinburgh's best neighbourhoods for eating and drinking. The Shore and surrounding streets hold several acclaimed restaurants, including The Kitchin, which holds a Michelin star. The Royal Yacht Britannia, moored at Ocean Terminal, is one of Edinburgh's most visited attractions and is within easy walking distance of most Leith hotels. The Leith Market runs on weekends near Dock Place, offering local food and produce. For quieter moments, the Water of Leith Walkway provides a pleasant route towards the Botanic Garden and the city centre on foot.
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